New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NY DOCCS) Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NY DOCCS) is the state agency responsible for the custody and supervision of individuals sentenced to state prison and those released to community supervision. It oversees 52 correctional facilities across the state of New York.
Contact Information
Address: 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12226-2050
Phone: (518) 457-8126
Website: https://doccs.ny.gov/
Email: N/A (General inquiries should be made through the website or phone)
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate in the NY DOCCS system, use the online Inmate Lookup Service: https://nysdoccslookup.doccs.ny.gov/
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation policies and hours vary by facility. Check the specific facility's information on the NY DOCCS website or contact the facility directly for current visitation schedules and procedures.
How to Send Money
Inmates can receive funds through several methods:
- JPay: https://www.jpay.com/
- Western Union Quick Collect
- Money order by mail
Phone Calls and Video Options
Phone services are provided through Securus Technologies. For information on setting up an account, visit: https://securustech.net/
Video visitation options may be available at some facilities. Check with the specific facility for availability and procedures.
Inmate Services and Programs
NY DOCCS offers various programs including:
- Educational programs (Adult Basic Education, High School Equivalency, College Programs)
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Transitional services
History of the Facility
The New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision was formed in 2011 through the merger of the Department of Correctional Services and the Division of Parole. Its history dates back to 1970 when the Department of Correctional Services was established.
Security and Management Information
NY DOCCS operates maximum, medium, and minimum security facilities. Each facility has its own security protocols and management structure, overseen by a Superintendent who reports to the DOCCS Central Office.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family visitation rights are subject to facility rules and regulations. For detailed information on inmate rights, refer to the Inmate Rulebook available at each facility.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process involves intake at a reception center, where inmates are classified and assigned to a facility. The release process includes pre-release programming and may involve post-release supervision depending on the sentence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can inmates receive visits?
Visitation frequency varies by facility and security level. Most facilities allow visits on weekends and holidays, but some may also have weekday visiting hours. Check with the specific facility for exact schedules.
Can inmates receive packages?
Yes, inmates can receive packages, but there are strict guidelines on what can be sent and how. Packages must be sent through approved vendors. Check the NY DOCCS website for current package regulations.
What items are inmates allowed to have?
Allowed items vary by facility and security level. Generally, inmates can have a limited amount of clothing, hygiene products, writing materials, and approved electronic devices. Refer to the facility's specific regulations for a complete list.
Famous Prisoners
Some notable individuals who have served time in NY DOCCS facilities include:
- David Berkowitz ("Son of Sam") - Serial killer, sentenced in 1978
- Mark David Chapman - Murderer of John Lennon, incarcerated since 1981
- Tupac Shakur - Rapper, served time for sexual abuse in 1995
- Ol' Dirty Bastard - Rapper, served time for drug possession and probation violations
- Sid Vicious - Bassist of the Sex Pistols, held at Rikers Island in 1978
- Sonny Franzese - Colombo crime family underboss, multiple incarcerations
- Robert Chambers ("The Preppy Killer") - Convicted of manslaughter in 1988
- Clifford Irving - Writer, imprisoned for his Howard Hughes autobiography hoax
- Jimmy Caci - Mobster associated with the Los Angeles crime family
- Joel Rifkin - Serial killer, serving a life sentence since 1994
